Send Event Script Step

[Kathy]

Hi.

 

I created a script using "send event" to open Word so I could print merge letters from my database. I tried to define it so the actual letter document opened, but instead I get the initial menu when Word opens. Then I have to go and find the document I want to open. Is there a way to have it open the letter without all the other steps?

 

I also have a script that exports my contact's info into a merge file to use with the merge letter. Is it possible to include this in the script so that if I am looking at a group of contacts I can have their mailing info exported into a merge file, have the merge letter open in Word and just hit Print?

 

Is this the preferred choice to doing letters, or do you like creating the letters in FM? I use to do that, but found that my spacing in the letter wasn't always as precise as in a word document. Thoughts?

 

Kathy

[bikergeek]

Using merge fields in a letter layout and allowing the text to wrap within a defined text area, you should have no problem with spacing in FM.

 

Use the rulers for layout, and you can either place the whole letter within a single text block or create separate text blocks and place them exactly where you want on the layout. You can even place letterhead graphics right in the layout so you can print letterhead on plain paper right from FM.

[Kathy]

Thanks.

 

Kathy

[SurferNate]

Also, use global containers for all of your graphics and such, that way later on you can change a graphic across the entire solution with a single field change. If you want to get a little trickier, use portals to dynamically display fields. You can reduce the number of layouts you create if you have a generic form (say one form that can change to be a fax, letter, memo or whatever) that can display additional content in certain circumstances.

 

Instead of having a dozen special word templates, you could have only three or four dynamic display forms in FM.

[Kathy]

>

 

Could you elaborate on that a bit more, perhaps with examples?

Thanks.

[SurferNate]

Go to:

 

http://www.filemakermagazine.com/

 

and watch some of the instructional videos...if you have a creative mind you will get all kinds of ideas.